15. To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what assessment he has made of recent trends in school examination results; and if he will make a statement. (183694)

Since 1997 there has been an unparalleled rise in primary and secondary school standards. For example, in 2007 60.8 per cent. of pupils gained five good GCSEs compared to 45.7 per cent. in 1997. There has also been a significant increase when English and mathematics are included.

The Children's Plan outlines ambitious goals for the next 10 years to build upon the considerable improvements in examination results already made.